Malek is one of the few faculty members who has been dancing at Saffron since we opened our doors back in 2007. A staple of our community, she has a love of teaching beginners and introducing new students to the world of belly dance. Let's learn a bit about her!

When did you first start belly dancing? What were your initial thoughts?

Back in 2003 I went my friend's brother engagement party and they had bellydancers. My first thought was this looks like fun, I want to try this!

Why have you stuck with belly dance for so long? What keeps you coming back?

I have stuck with belly dance because it brings me so much joy. I keep coming back because I am a work in progress and I want to learn and grow as a dancer. I just can't help myself, I just love it!

How has teaching changed your relationship to the dance?

Teaching has made me love dance even more if possible. Breaking down the movement for my students and I see their wheels turning and they finally get it. Gives me a greater appreciation for the dance.

When did you know you wanted to teach belly dance? Was the transition from student to teacher difficult?

I never knew I wanted to be a teacher, but when it was suggested to me, I thought "hey I can do this! I have something to give to our community." My transition had a slight learning curve, and I think the hardest thing was being out in front, instead of being in the background.